Superfoods and their benefits
Nowadays the term SUPERFOODS is very popular.
Superfoods are not new foods. This is only a term, used by many, to tell that this food is rich in antioxidants, fibers or fatty acids, considered beneficial to a person’s health.
This new term won the attention of people, who are seeking for new ways to improve their health.
The good thing is that some foods, forgotten by many, now are beginning to be part of their table.
Let’s mention some “superfoods”:
- Spinach is rich in iron, potassium and fibers. A leafy green vegetable which can restore energy and increase vitality. Is said that spinach reduces blood sugar levels, aids in weight loss, aids in good bone health, is good for eyes, has anti-inflammatory properties, boosts the immune system and keeps the normal function of the brain.
- Acai Berry is a very strong antioxidant that may support a healthy inflammatory response, a healthy aging and cardiovascular support. Animal studies shown that Acai Berry can lower cholesterol levels in the body. Being a strong antioxidant means that it works against free radicals, that cause damage in the body.
- Watermelon is known as the fruit that keeps you hydrated, because it contains 92% water. It is low in calories and has antioxidant properties. It contains citrulline (an amino acid that reduce muscle soreness), vitamin C and A (with antioxidant properties, necessary for the skin and hair), lycopene (with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties).
- Sweet potatoes are very nutritious. They contain a lot of fibers and are low in saturated fats and cholesterol. Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins (A, C, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6) and minerals (iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, copper, manganese). They have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and improve the level of blood sugar.
- Goji Berries contains high levels of zeaxanthin, for this reason they improve vision. They are also rich in beta-carotene, with a lot of benefits for the skin and other antioxidants that protect from the free radicals and have at the same time anti-inflammatory properties. One research showed that Goji Berries can improve depression and anxiety-like behaviors.
- Wild Salmon is one of the most nutritious fish. It contains omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin B12. It also has a great taste and is delicious. It has a lot of benefits for the body.
- Mushrooms have a great taste, but at the same time they have a lot of benefits.
- Ginger contains gingerol, an antioxidant, effective in managing nausea and reducing pain from acute and chronic inflammatory conditions. It may reduce the risk of heart diseases and dementia.
- Turmeric is a bright yellow spice, originally from India. It has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It is not easily absorbed by the body, but you can mix it with other spices such as black pepper to enhance absorption.
- Avocado is a highly nutritious fruit. It is rich in fibers, vitamins, minerals and healthy fats. It contains oleic acid, which helps to reduce inflammation in the body. Eating avocado helps to reduce the risk of heart diseases, diabetes and metabolic syndrome.
- Spirulina is a blue alga, which is considered a superfood due to its nutritional properties and health benefits. It has a high protein and vitamin content, which makes it an excellent dietary supplement for vegans and vegetarians. Spirulina has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It also boosts the immune system.
Taking spirulina regularly may help to reduce cholesterol levels and maintain a normal blood pressure.
- Chlorella, an alga with a lot of benefits. It should be taken as a supplement because has a hard cell wall that cannot be digested. Chlorella is important because helps to remove heavy metals and harmful compounds from the body. We may say that chlorella enhance our body ability to clear toxins. It also works as an antioxidant and helps in the fight against chronic diseases. Till now we don’t have a specific daily dosage for chlorella. Some studies suggest that we should take 1.2 grams per day, while others 5-10 grams per day. Most supplements recommended a dosage of 2-3 grams per day.
- Maca, is a superfood which provides energy, but not only. It is recommended to be taken from people who have hormonal problems. Maca is rich in proteins, minerals and vitamins.
- Nuts are also considered superfoods. Almonds are the best choice for persons who want to lose weight and have energy. They are a natural source of 15 nutrients, including plant proteins and healthy fats. Almonds are rich in vitamin E antioxidants, dietary fiber, riboflavin, phosphorus, magnesium, copper, protein, manganese and calcium. They also contain folate, iron, niacin, thiamine, zinc and potassium.
When you are young cooking is not a priority. You want to go out and have fun. You have the energy and you feel like you are invincible. But after some years the first problems start. If you are 50 years or older you probably have one of the following conditions:
-high blood sugar levels;
-hypertension;
-bones inflammation;
-osteoporosis;
-cardiovascular problems.
If you don’t have any of the diseases mentioned above you are a very healthy person; if not try to change something. Start changing the way you eat. Consume “SUPERFOODS”.
They lower inflammation, help to lower blood sugar levels and hypertension and have antioxidant properties.
They can be cooked in different ways and taste delicious.
If this is not possible all the time, in the market are available a lot of food supplements that will offer the necessary amount of them.